2026 WAFCON Qualifiers: Senegal edge Ivory Coast in penalty drama to secure Morocco spot

Senegal have booked their ticket to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after overcoming Ivory Coast in a tense and dramatic qualifier.

The first leg between Ivory Coast and Senegal ended goalless, setting the stage for a high-stakes return fixture.

Today’s match started with both sides showing caution, making for a cagey first half as each team focused on defensive solidity and limited opportunities. After the break, the encounter shifted into a true battle, with intensity rising and both teams pressing for a vital breakthrough. Despite their best efforts, neither side could find the net, taking the match into extra time.

Extra time saw no change to the scoreline, meaning the tie would be settled by the lottery of penalties. In the shootout, Senegal held their nerve, coming out on top 5-4 and breaking Ivorian hearts in the process.

Senegal’s resilience and composure under pressure sees them through to the main tournament in Morocco, earning a hard-fought qualification in the 2026 WAFCON qualifiers